Prema izvješću, Apple je navodno potrošio nekoliko godina pokušavajući donijeti podršku za svoj Apple Watch na Android pametne telefone. Iako su prethodni izvještaji otkrili da je Apple istraživao mogućnost lansiranja Apple Watcha koji bi bio kompatibilan s Android telefonima, ovo je prva potvrda od strane samog Applea da je tvrtka imala takve planove. Međutim, zbog tehničkih ograničenja koja su otkrivena tijekom trogodišnjeg razdoblja istraživanja, tvrtka je navodno odustala od daljnjeg širenja podrške za Apple Watch izvan iPhonea. Ovo otkriće dolazi kao odgovor na tužbu koju je protiv Applea podiglo američko Ministarstvo pravde, optuživši ga za kršenje američkih antimonopolskih zakona.
Apple’s Attempt to Bring Apple Watch to Android
Apple’s engineers reportedly spent several years working on bringing support for the Apple Watch to Android smartphones. Previous reports had hinted at Apple’s efforts to expand its smartwatch compatibility beyond the iPhone, but this is the first confirmation from Apple itself. According to the company’s response to the US Department of Justice (DoJ) lawsuit, Apple considered supporting the Apple Watch on Android handsets. However, after encountering technical limitations over a three-year period, the company ultimately decided to drop its plans.
US DoJ Lawsuit Against Apple
The US DoJ has accused Apple of violating antitrust laws at both the federal and state level. The lawsuit specifically alleges that Apple has engaged in practices that reduce the quality of cross-platform messaging, limit the functionality of non-Apple smartwatches, suppress cloud streaming for games on iOS, and block third-party apps from offering tap-to-pay functionality through Apple Pay.
Apple’s Response to the Lawsuit
Apple has categorically denied the allegations made in the US DoJ lawsuit. In its response, the company stated that the lawsuit poses a threat to Apple’s identity and principles, and that it plans to vigorously defend against it. Apple believes that the lawsuit is wrong on both the facts and the law, and it stands firm in its commitment to providing products that set itself apart in fiercely competitive markets.
Other Apple Watch Developments
In addition to the attempt to bring Apple Watch to Android, Apple has been exploring various other developments in the wearable space. The company has scrapped its microLED Watch Ultra project and laid off employees associated with it. Apple has also been researching the potential for smart glasses and AirPods with camera functionality. Additionally, reports suggest that the Apple Watch Series 10 may feature blood pressure monitoring capabilities.
Project Fennel
Project Fennel, an effort to bring the Apple Watch and Apple’s Health app to Android smartphones, was reportedly canceled just as it was nearing completion. The decision to abandon the project was made to prioritize the continued success of iPhone sales. Although the cancellation of Project Fennel may have disappointed some Android users, it highlights Apple’s commitment to its core products and market strategy.
Importance of Apple Watch on Android
The attempt to bring the Apple Watch to the Android platform could have had significant implications for market competitiveness. By expanding its compatibility beyond the iPhone, Apple could have tapped into a much larger customer base and potentially gained a competitive edge against other smartwatch manufacturers. Furthermore, compatibility with Android smartphones would have provided consumers with more options and flexibility in choosing their wearable devices.
Industry Competitors
Key Android smartphone manufacturers, such as Samsung, Google, and Huawei, present strong competition in the market. These companies have their own smartwatches that cater to Android users. Similarly, various smartwatches on the Android platform, including those powered by Google’s Wear OS, offer consumers a wide range of options when it comes to choosing a compatible wearable device.
Impact on Apple Watch Sales
While the attempt to bring the Apple Watch to Android may have expanded its potential customer base, exclusivity to the iPhone has its advantages. By focusing on the iPhone as the primary companion device for the Apple Watch, Apple can leverage the synergy between the two products to drive sales. The exclusive integration between the Apple Watch and iPhone can also create a sense of brand loyalty among Apple users.
Public Response to the Lawsuit
The lawsuit filed against Apple by the US DoJ has garnered mixed reactions from consumers and industry experts. Some consumers have expressed concerns about Apple’s alleged anticompetitive practices, while others believe that the lawsuit is baseless and may hinder innovation in the tech industry. The lawsuit has also sparked a broader debate about Apple’s market dominance and the impact it has on competition.
Future Implications
The US DoJ lawsuit and Apple’s response to it could potentially impact Apple’s product development strategy moving forward. Apple may exercise more caution in implementing features that could be deemed anticompetitive or violate antitrust laws. Additionally, the lawsuit may prompt Apple to reassess its relationship with the Android platform and adopt strategies that allow for greater compatibility while still maintaining the exclusivity and integration with the iPhone that has been integral to its success.
